Dear Dish-It: I Want to Be Popular

Believe it or not, being the most popular kid in school isn’t as perfect as it sounds! I think it’s important to remember an old saying that goes: “The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” Translation: we always want what we don’t have (like tons of friends and total popularity), but once we get it it’s often not as great as we thought.

Rather than struggling to be popular, you should make it a goal to have a few really amazing friends. Think about the kids in your class – who seems really cool? How about your next-door neighbor, or the new kid on your soccer team?

Another great way to meet and make great friends is to keep developing your strengths (in school, on the sports field and in anything else you do). You may even want to take up a new after-school activity, where you’ll be able to meet even more people. Then be yourself, and be outgoing. Say hi and chat with lots of kids. Ask them questions to show you’re really interested in getting to know them, like, “How was your weekend?” or “How did you do on that test?” Be nice, not nosy.

Instead of focusing on fitting in, concentrate on connecting with others in a meaningful way. Friendship will follow … and REAL friendship can last a lifetime!

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Dear Dish-It in the forums

Talk to your parents about it. Tell them you didn't like your Christmas gift, and don't let your brother boss you around. Your parents can, your brother can't. Your parents gave you life, sorry to tell you but they can do anything they want if it's legal. But your brother can't. Let your parents know that you shouldn't have gotten in trouble for the stuff he doesn't. Tell them he makes you feel really awful and you don't like it. If they're good people they'll understand.

I would stop being friends with her. I mean she should understand that it'd be mean to do that. It's hard to help your friend get through a breakup when you're dating the same person. Plus you don't even know if she was trying to break you guys up so she could be with him.

Talk to your friend. Tell her that this is the first guy that's ever liked you but you don't want her to get mad at you for stealing him from her. But understand she likes him too so don't get mad if she doesn't want you dating him. Nicely decide which of you should get him instead of the other. Chances are she might be thinking the same thing.